Poland Immigration Rules Update for Third Country Nationals in 2025
Poland introduced important changes to its immigration rules in 2025 affecting third country nationals. These changes aim to balance the needs of the labor market with tighter control and improved integration for foreign workers. This article explains the key updates and their impact.
New Immigration Legislation and Timeline
In 2025 Poland passed new laws regulating the employment of foreigners and residence permits. The main reforms started on May first followed by further updates on June first and July first.
Key Changes Effective from June First 2025
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The labour market test was removed. Employers no longer have to prove a shortage of Polish or European Union workers before hiring foreigners.
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Local authorities may publish lists of protected professions where hiring foreigners is restricted.
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All work permit and residence applications must be submitted electronically through official platforms. Paper forms are no longer accepted.
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Employers must upload signed employment contracts before foreign nationals begin work. Contracts must specify wages working hours and job descriptions.
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Part time contracts under twenty five percent of full time are not allowed. Contracts with ten to twenty hours per week qualify for a one year permit. Full or half time contracts may grant permits up to three years.
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Employers must keep records of employment and personal data of foreign workers for two years after the employment ends. They must notify authorities of important changes.
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Fines for violations have increased significantly for both employers and workers.
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Fast track processing is available for compliant employers priority sectors and repeat applicants.
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Authorities can refuse permits if employers are seen as set up only to facilitate foreign entry have unpaid contributions or offer very low working hours contracts.
Additional Reforms from July First 2025
Further changes focus on digitalizing residency permit processes tighter controls on foreign students and pilot regional quotas or limits on permits by industry or region.
The European Union Blue Card scheme was also modernized with simplified requirements increased mobility and faster processing.
Support and Integration Efforts
Poland plans to open forty nine EU funded integration centers providing language training legal aid and psychological support in all provinces by the end of 2025. The government strategy emphasizes selective labor immigration integration and security.
Border Control Measures
Poland reinstated border checks with Germany and Lithuania in early July 2025 due to irregular migration flows which may affect third country nationals entering the country.
Frequently Asked Questions